Santa Monica stands out as a perfect backdrop for memorable buffet experiences thanks to its picturesque harbor views and lively waterfront atmosphere. While the city isn’t known for sprawling all-you-can-eat buffets like some inland destinations, it offers unique, themed cruises and brunches that combine great food with stunning scenery. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a special occasion, or just want a relaxed meal with a view, Santa Monica’s buffet experiences deliver both in flavor and atmosphere. The variety of options ranges from festive Christmas cruises to family-friendly Father’s Day brunches, ensuring there’s something for almost every taste and occasion.
What makes these experiences particularly appealing is their combination of delicious cuisine served in a setting that’s both relaxed and festive. If you enjoy a touch of celebration on the water or want to indulge in a hearty brunch with scenic vistas, Santa Monica’s buffet cruises make for an excellent choice. These tours are designed to be convenient, memorable, and often include extra features like live entertainment or themed decor, adding that special touch to your meal.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout buffet experiences in Santa Monica: two themed cruises during Christmas and Christmas Day, and a special Father’s Day brunch cruise. These options combine food, scenery, and atmosphere in ways that make them more than just a meal—they’re events. You can browse the Marina del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch Cruise for a holiday celebration, the Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise for a family treat, or the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch Cruise for a festive holiday meal on the water.
Now, let’s explore each of these culinary cruise experiences in detail to help you decide which one fits your plans best.
1. Marina del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch Cruise
Celebrating Christmas Eve in Santa Monica doesn’t have to mean a quiet dinner at home. This Premier Brunch Cruise offers an elegant way to enjoy the holiday with freshly prepared brunch buffet, full bar service, and festive decor. Starting at 11:00 am, you’ll board at Fisherman’s Village and cruise around Marina del Rey, enjoying unbeatable views of Southern California’s beaches and harbor. The cruise lasts approximately three hours, giving you plenty of time to indulge and soak in the scenery.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of holiday spirit and luxury. The chef-curated buffet features a variety of dishes, and the onboard live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere. The decorations and holiday music make it feel like a celebration on the water. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a special Christmas Eve, this cruise scores a perfect 5.0 rating from the single review it has received. The $134.21 per person price provides good value considering the three-hour duration and included amenities.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a festive, scenic meal that feels both special and relaxed. It’s ideal for holiday travelers who enjoy a well-organized event with beautiful views.
2. Marina del Rey Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
For around $175, the Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise offers a memorable way to celebrate Dad with an afternoon on the water. Although it doesn’t have reviews yet, the experience promises a 2.5-hour cruise starting from Fisherman’s Village, with an emphasis on chef-inspired, plated entrees and a selection of wine, beer, and cocktails. The cruise provides distinctive service and the option to enjoy the meal either from the indoor dining area or the open-air decks, making for a flexible and scenic dining experience.
What makes this cruise unique is its focus on family and celebration, perfect for honoring dads with a special meal. The onboard atmosphere is lively, with music setting a cheerful tone. It’s best suited for families who want a relaxed yet refined event, and the outdoor decks allow for excellent views during the cruise. Though there are no reviews yet, the focus on chef-crafted dishes and beverages suggests a quality experience worth considering.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families celebrating Father’s Day, this cruise offers a combination of good food, scenic views, and a festive atmosphere. It’s a bit pricier, but the focus on quality and comfort makes it a worthwhile splurge.
3. Marina del Rey Christmas Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
If you want to keep the holiday spirit going, the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch Cruise provides a delightful way to spend Christmas with loved ones. Departing from Marina del Rey, this 2.5-hour cruise features festive decor and a delicious buffet meal that brings a festive touch to your celebration. The cruise passes by Fisherman’s Village, offering a scenic backdrop for your holiday meal.
While this experience is relatively new and no reviews are available, the emphasis on seasonal decor and a hearty brunch makes it a solid choice for those who want to extend their Christmas festivities. The price is $142.64 per person, which includes the cruise and the meal, offering good value for a holiday event with scenic views. It’s best suited for families or groups looking for a cozy, scenic Christmas gathering.
Bottom Line: For a festive, scenic Christmas celebration, this brunch cruise is a charming way to enjoy the holiday with friends and family, all while cruising the beautiful Marina del Rey.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. For a full holiday experience, the Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch Cruise offers a longer, more festive celebration. If celebrating Dad is your goal, the Father’s Day cruise provides a family-friendly setting with chef-inspired food and drinks. For Christmas Day, the Christmas Day cruise is perfect for extending holiday cheer.
Think about your budget, the length of the cruise, and whether you prefer a holiday-themed event or a more general family celebration. Booking early is advisable, especially during popular holiday periods.
Final Thoughts
Santa Monica offers a handful of buffet cruises that blend good food with beautiful harbor views and festive atmosphere. The Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch Cruise stands out for its perfect rating and comprehensive holiday experience. The Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise provides a lively family event, while the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch Cruise offers a cozy way to keep holiday spirits high.
If you’re planning a special meal on the water, these cruises are a fantastic choice. For best results, book well in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Regardless of your option, you’re in for a flavorful, scenic experience that captures the best of Santa Monica’s waterfront charm.